Matthew 28:12

Authorized King James Version

And when they were assembled with the elders, and had taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers,

Word-by-Word Analysis

καὶ

G2532

And

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

συναχθέντες

G4863

when they were assembled

to lead together, i.e., collect or convene; specially, to entertain (hospitably)

μετὰ

G3326

with

properly, denoting accompaniment; "amid" (local or causal); modified variously according to the case (genitive association, or accusative succession)

τῶν

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πρεσβυτέρων

G4245

the elders

older; as noun, a senior; specially, an israelite sanhedrist (also figuratively, member of the celestial council) or christian "presbyter"

συμβούλιόν

G4824

counsel

advisement; specially, a deliberative body, i.e., the provincial assessors or lay-court

τε

G5037

and

both or also (properly, as correlation of g2532)

λαβόντες

G2983

had taken

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

ἀργύρια

G694

money

silvery, i.e., (by implication) cash; specially, a silverling (i.e., drachma or shekel)

#10

ἱκανὰ

G2425

large

competent (as if coming in season), i.e., ample (in amount) or fit (in character)

#11

ἔδωκαν

G1325

they gave

to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection)

#12

τοῖς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#13

στρατιώταις

G4757

unto the soldiers

a camper-out, i.e., a (common) warrior (literally or figuratively)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Matthew.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within Roman imperial rule over Jewish Palestine with messianic expectations. The author writes to address Jewish Christians seeking to understand Jesus as Messiah, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?
In what ways does understanding divine revelation in its original context challenge or deepen contemporary Christian thinking about salvation?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

Related Resources

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Matthew 28:12

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources